Van Persie starts for United at Sunderland

ESPN staff

August 24, 2014

Robin van Persie makes his first start of the season for Manchester United in Sunday's Premier League clash at Sunderland.

Van Persie sat out United's opening 2-1 defeat to Swansea at Old Trafford last week. The Dutchman is one of three changes Louis van Gaal has made to his side, with Tom Cleverley and Antonio Valencia coming into the fold.

Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Tyler Blackett remain in defence for the visitors, while Cleverley and Darren Fletcher make up the United midfield. Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata and Ashley Young complete the line up, while Danny Welbeck - who has reportedly been told he can leave the club - remains on the bench.

Gus Poyet has made two changes to his Sunderland side, with Santiago Vergini and Will Buckley coming in. Former United defenders John O'Shea and Wes Brown make up the hosts' defence.